Gas prices may be falling a bit, but they are still higher than they were a year ago.  Grocery prices are at an all-time high.  Heating and cooling costs have increased dramatically.  So how's a family afford to send their kids back to school on a limited budget?  Take advantage of the Iowa Tax-Free Weekend this Friday, August 5th and Saturday, August 6th.

For example, Clothing and shoes priced under $100 are sales tax-free. Dozens of items are eligible from diapers and baby clothes to jeans and sweatshirts. Other items eligible for Tax-Free status are:

  • Athletic Socks Athletic supporters
  • Belts, Bibs, Blouses, Boots-general purpose, Bow ties
  • Coats and wraps (You'll need them eventually)
  • Graduation caps and gowns, sold - not rented
  • Gym suits and uniforms
  • Hiking boots
  • Sweaters and Sweatshirts
  • Swim suits, trunks

For a complete list of eligible Tax-Free items click HERE

Unfortunately, some specialty items are not included in the tax-free weekend.  Many essentials like backpacks and most sports equipment don't qualify for tax-free status. According to the Iowa Department of Revenue website, here's what else is NOT eligible for the tax-free discount.

  • Ballet shoes
  • Billfolds, wallets
  • Cosmetics
  • Jewelry
  • Rented clothing, including uniforms, formal wear, and costumes

See the entire list HERE

All businesses in Iowa including the big-box stores and small retailers that are open August 5th and August 6th are required to participate.  If you plan to do your shopping online, you can still take advantage of the Tax-Free Weekend from any online retailer not based in Iowa.. If you are mistakenly charged state sales tax by an online retailer on your order, the Iowa Department of Revenue offers reimbursements through an IA 843 Claim for Refund form available online at tax.iowa.gov.

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